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Help end the slaughter

Published: Friday, December 7, 2012 at 6:01 a.m.

Last Modified: Thursday, December 6, 2012 at 11:19 a.m.

Over the past several months, there has been a disturbing new trend in animal cruelty. Six dolphins were recently washed up onto the Gulf Coast shore either badly injured or dead. Although dolphin deaths in this region are not uncommon, these cases are different.

Last week, two more dolphin deaths occurred off the coast of Mississippi. One entire body washed ashore, and another dolphin head appeared in the same area.

These dolphins have all been killed and mutilated in such a way that natural predatory behavior could not have occurred.

The evidence shows that humans have intentionally harmed the dolphins. This behavior is inexcusable.

Whether it is one predator killing these animals or several people acting in unison, the cause of their actions is unknown.

Empirical studies show that dolphins are highly intelligent beings, with complex brains functions and impressive cognitive abilities that are comparable to human functions.

They have advanced cognitive processes and are highly social animals. Dolphins organize themselves in social groups, which often create their own unique cultures.

Also, like humans, newborn and young dolphins are emotionally attached to their parents.

It is not surprising therefore, to learn that dolphins are extremely aware of their surroundings and suffer emotional and physical distress when one member of their pod is killed or maimed.

Their grieving process is also very similar to the human experience; even harming one animal can alter their social structure, causing great hardship for the entire community.

In fact, some experts have said there is evidence of dolphin depression and even suicide.

Why anyone would harm such beautiful and sensitive creatures is inexplicable, and it must be stopped.

But finding whoever is responsible for these attacks at sea can be a difficult task.

One that will require the involvement of the entire marine community, from professional to recreational fishermen to state and federal investigators. All must work cohesively to uncover evidence and stop the senseless attacks on dolphins along our Gulf Coast.

We must act swiftly and comprehensively to bring those responsible to justice and make them accountable for their actions. We simply cannot wait to see what is happening any longer. The dolphins need our help.

<p>Over the past several months, there has been a disturbing new trend in animal cruelty. Six dolphins were recently washed up onto the Gulf Coast shore either badly injured or dead. Although dolphin deaths in this region are not uncommon, these cases are different. </p><p>Last week, two more dolphin deaths occurred off the coast of Mississippi. One entire body washed ashore, and another dolphin head appeared in the same area.</p><p>These dolphins have all been killed and mutilated in such a way that natural predatory behavior could not have occurred.</p><p>The evidence shows that humans have intentionally harmed the dolphins. This behavior is inexcusable.</p><p>Whether it is one predator killing these animals or several people acting in unison, the cause of their actions is unknown. </p><p>Empirical studies show that dolphins are highly intelligent beings, with complex brains functions and impressive cognitive abilities that are comparable to human functions.</p><p>They have advanced cognitive processes and are highly social animals. Dolphins organize themselves in social groups, which often create their own unique cultures. </p><p>Also, like humans, newborn and young dolphins are emotionally attached to their parents.</p><p>It is not surprising therefore, to learn that dolphins are extremely aware of their surroundings and suffer emotional and physical distress when one member of their pod is killed or maimed.</p><p>Their grieving process is also very similar to the human experience; even harming one animal can alter their social structure, causing great hardship for the entire community.</p><p>In fact, some experts have said there is evidence of dolphin depression and even suicide.</p><p>Why anyone would harm such beautiful and sensitive creatures is inexplicable, and it must be stopped. </p><p>But finding whoever is responsible for these attacks at sea can be a difficult task.</p><p>One that will require the involvement of the entire marine community, from professional to recreational fishermen to state and federal investigators. All must work cohesively to uncover evidence and stop the senseless attacks on dolphins along our Gulf Coast.</p><p>We must act swiftly and comprehensively to bring those responsible to justice and make them accountable for their actions. We simply cannot wait to see what is happening any longer. The dolphins need our help.</p><p>Daniel McCall</p><p>Duke University </p><p>public policy student</p>